Sweating Under Stress

Stress-induced sweat can be triggered by sensory, emotional or mental stimulation such as loud noises, pain or mental challenges. A recent survey by HealthyWomen shows that the majority of us experience anxiety when we start sweating before a job interview (69.7%) or before a big work or meeting presentation (68.5%). Other sweaty moments that caused significant anxiety among those surveyed included running late for a meeting, going on a date, receiving constructive criticism at work and having a family confrontation.

And we all know that the holidays can be stressful—some would say they’re the most stressful time of the year. More than one-third of respondents (36.2%) said that balancing work with seasonal activities was the most stressful part of the holidays. Does it make you sweat just thinking about it?

Sweat Solutions

For most of us, sweat is just an inconvenience—a flushed face, beads of sweat at inopportune times and stained or smelly clothes. An over-the-counter antiperspirant or deodorant usually takes care of the problem, and a clinical-strength antiperspirant offers extra protection against sweat caused by heat, activity or stress—whatever you may face. Here are some tips to help you decide what you need:

• Deodorants can eliminate and/or mask odors, but they don't stop perspiration. The alcohol-based deodorants make your skin more acidic and therefore less attractive to bacteria. They usually contain fragrances to help hide the bad odors. They may be used on your hands or feet, in addition to underarms.
• Antiperspirants temporarily block your sweat pores with aluminum-based compounds, so less sweat reaches your skin.
• Clinical-strength antiperspirants, also called extra-strength antiperspirants, are also available over the counter, though they cost a bit more. They may help if you feel like you sweat excessively or if you need protection from the unpredictable sweat that can be triggered by stress. Look for ones containing 12 percent to 15 percent aluminum chloride.
• Prescription antiperspirants contain higher concentrations of aluminum chloride hexahydrate. Some also contain ingredients to help dry sweaty areas. Prescription antiperspirants should be applied exactly as prescribed. They can cause red, swollen and itchy skin and should be washed off and discontinued if irritation occurs. They are not recommended for women who may be pregnant or breastfeeding.
• Botulinum injections into the underarms may significantly reduce or stop sweating in the underarms. These injections are relatively painless and last about six months. There are usually no side effects and treatments often are covered by insurance.

Here are some other things you can try to relieve perspiration problems: